Fort James Jackson

Fort James Jackson is a restored nineteenth-century military structure positioned directly on the eastern banks of the Savannah River in Georgia. The structure consists of massive brick walls with multiple gun emplacements and casemates arranged in a five-sided design.

The fort was built between 1808 and 1812 as part of the American coastal defense system that developed during the early republic. It served a defensive role for Savannah during the War of 1812 and subsequent conflicts.

The fort displays military architecture from the early 1800s through preserved brick walls, gun emplacements, and original structural elements of that period. Visitors can explore the layout and building style typical of American coastal fortifications of that era.

The fort is accessible via Fort Jackson Road, located north of East President Street, with guided tours that explain the military defense strategies. The best time to visit is on dry days, since paths on the grounds can become muddy at times.

The fort contains a Napoleon 12-Pounder Field Gun from 1857, showing the development of artillery technology in the nineteenth century. This piece is a rare example of the weaponry used during multiple American conflicts.

Location: Chatham County

Website: https://chsgeorgia.org/home.cfm/page/OldFortJackson.htm

GPS coordinates: 32.08194,-81.03611

Latest update: December 7, 2025 19:27